The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has ordered a review of India’s Under-19 Asia Cup campaign following the team’s heavy defeat in the final, Cricbuzz reported on Monday, December 22. The board has sought a detailed report from the team management and is expected to hold discussions with captain Ayush Mhatre and head coach Hrishikesh Kanitkar in the coming days.

The decision was taken during the BCCI Apex Council meeting and comes in the aftermath of India’s crushing loss to Pakistan in the tournament final. Despite remaining unbeaten throughout the competition, the Indian U19 side endured a dramatic collapse on the big day, suffering a 191-run defeat. Captain Ayush Mhatre and Vaibhav Suryavanshi were among the key players who failed to make an impact, as the entire batting unit struggled in what proved to be a collective off day.

While post-tournament reviews are routine, the BCCI’s move to directly engage with both the captain and head coach is seen as a significant step. Earlier this year, the board adopted a similar approach after India’s senior team endured a disappointing Border-Gavaskar Trophy campaign in Australia, holding discussions with Gautam Gambhir and then-captain Rohit Sharma.

According to Cricbuzz, the review is part of the BCCI’s forward-looking strategy ahead of the Under-19 World Cup, scheduled for January–February 2026. The board is keen to identify shortcomings early and ensure the team is better prepared for the global event.

Pakistan stun India in U19 Asia Cup final

India’s unbeaten run came to a sudden halt in the U19 Asia Cup 2025 final in Dubai, where Pakistan produced a dominant all-round performance to clinch the title. Batting first at the ICC Academy Ground on December 21, Pakistan rode on opener Sameer Minhas’ brilliant 71-ball century to post a commanding total.

Farhan Yousaf’s side then dismantled the Indian batting lineup, bowling them out for just 156 in 26.2 overs to seal a comprehensive 191-run victory and hand India one of their heaviest defeats at the U19 level.

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